Property of a deceased's estate
1935 Vincent-HRD 498cc Meteor Series-A Project
Frame no. D956
Engine no. M224

Rear frame no. D956

Increasing dissatisfaction with suppliers led to the creation of Vincent's own engine in 1934. An overhead-valve, 498cc single, this all-new, high-camshaft power unit was designed jointly by Philip Vincent and his Chief Engineer, Phil Irving. The names 'Meteor' and 'Comet' were chosen for the touring and sports versions respectively of the stylish new Series-A Vincent-HRD, which was first exhibited at the 1934 Motor Cycle Show. During the show, a tester achieved 90mph on a Comet, a highly respectable figure for a sports '500' and one that fully justified Philip Vincent's prior performance claims, while a good team performance at the 1935 Isle of Man Senior TT demonstrated that the new Vincent possessed reliability as well as speed. Production of all Series-A Vincent-HRDs ceased on the outbreak of WW2, and today the single-cylinder Meteor and Comet, models that effectively kick-started the Vincent legend, are highly prized by discerning collectors.

This matching-numbers Meteor was collected from the factory on 29th May 1935 by its first owner, a Mr H T Bones. Dismantled and incomplete, it benefits from some refurbishment (the frame and forks have been powder coated) and is offered for restoration. Offered with a VOC dating letter and sold strictly as viewed, it represents a rare opportunity to acquire one of the legendary Vincent-HRD Series-A singles, ripe for sympathetic restoration. A most potentially most rewarding project.